Social Work Practice with LGBT Elders at End of Life: Developing Practice Evaluation and Clinical Skills Through a Cultural Perspective

Abstract

This article focuses on culturally sensitive clinical issues related to best practices with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) elder patients at end-of-life (EOL) at key points in the therapeutic relationship. Vital concepts, including practice evaluation and clinical skills, are presented through a cultural and oncology lens. There is a paucity of LGBT research and literature as well as a shortfall of MSW graduate school education specific to social work palliative and end-of-life care (PELC) practice with LGBT elders. The content of this article is designed to be adapted and used as an educational tool for institutions, agencies, graduate programs, medical professions, social work, and students. Learning the unique elements of LGBT cultural history and their implications on EOL care can improve social work practice. This article provides an examination from assessment and engagement basics to advance care planning incorporating specific LGBT EOL issues.

KEYWORDS:

• assessment
• culture
• education & training
• engagement
• LGBT elders
• palliative and end-of-life care
• practice evaluation

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The author would like to thank the Zelda Foster Studies Fellowship Faculty, Dr. Susan Gerbino, Jocelyn Walls, Dr. Penny Damaskos, Dr. Daniel Gardner, David Child, and Steven Santurri for their contribution to and support of this manuscript.